How to Repair a Leaky Waterbed Mattress

Locate the leak on the vinyl mattress. If the leak is not noticeable to the eye, gently press down on small areas of the mattress at one time to force out a small amount of water to make the leak visible. Note: Leaks are far more common on the sides, top or seams of the waterbed mattress than underneath.

Place a pillow or something similar in height under the mattress to raise the area of the leak to move the water away from the puncture.

Dry the area around the puncture completely before using the repair kit or the patch will not adhere to the vinyl. Cut a piece of vinyl from the repair kit at least 1 inch in diameter larger than the puncture. Note: If the puncture is a pinhole, cut a 1-inch round patch.

Apply a thing layer of repair glue to the mattress using your finger or an old spoon that you can throw away. The glue should cover the puncture and a 1-inch area around the puncture. Wait for 1 minute, and then apply a thin layer of glue to the patch and another thin layer to the mattress.

Press the patch onto the puncture, making sure not to press the mattress into the water. Apply another thin coat of glue over the patch and along the edges of the patch for a solid seal. Allow the patch to set and the glue to dry about 30 minutes.

Wipe up any water that may have run off into the bed liner.